Jesse Winker picked a great time to hit his first homer as a Met. Inserted into the game as a pinch-hitter for the punchless Harrison Bader in the bottom of the ninth inning, Winker homered to left-center to give the Mets a walk-off win, 4-3, over the Orioles Wednesday afternoon. The victory gave the Mets the series win, with both of their victories coming with home runs in the bottom of the ninth off the same pitcher.
For a long time, it looked like the story of the game was going to be Sean Manaea, who had no-hit stuff. He was perfect for the first 17 outs and had a 2-2 count on the 18th hitter of the game but then put him on first with a hit batter. And the very next pitch was hit for a home run, tying the game at 2-2.
It was reminiscent of the opening game of the series, where the Mets lost a two-run lead with a balk and a home run on the next pitch. But they won that game, too.
Manaea pitched into the eighth inning but was removed after allowing an infield single to the leadoff batter, despite throwing just 90 pitches. Jose Butto relieved Manaea and allowed the inherited runner to score, which tied the game at 3-3 and left Manaea’s line at 7 IP and 3 ER. It’s too bad he didn’t get the win but it was a very strong outing, one that included 0 BB and 9 Ks.
Mark Vientos gave the Mets a 3-2 lead with a HR to center. Francisco Lindor gave the Mets the early lead with a homer to right-center in the third inning. All three homers for the Mets were crushed, with each going at least 401 feet.
Edwin Diaz pitched the ninth inning, striking out two of the three batters he faced and was credited with the win. He’s now 5-1 on the season with a 3.41 ERA.
The Mets ended their homestand 5-4 and now embark on a critical 10-game road trip, starting off with four against the Padres and three against the D’Backs, the teams that currently hold the first two Wild Card spots.
Was at the game today and paid a lot of attention to how Marte was moving on flyballs. He looked the best I’ve seen him all year.
Forgot it was a day game so I missed it. Happy for the series win. Lindor continues to be our MVP with Vientos next in line. It’s too bad he won’t get nearly enough ABs to qualify among the leaders with only appearing in 80 or so games. Strong pitching. Could use some help from the Phillies to catch the Braves with two games left in their series. After a three spot with the Nationals, the Braves host the Twins and Phillies for three game sets, while the Mets travel to the Padres and DBacks. It’s def a make or break 6 games for the Mets.
It’s our first Wink-off!
Let’s not overlook the ridiculous ball 4 call on what should have been a strikeout/double play in the 8th. That blown call is what let the orioles tie the game at 3. Bring on the ABS system stat.
Gut Reaction: Manaea is pitching so good that he will probably opt-out. Should the Mets offer him a qualifying offer? Stearns cashed in on the Winker deadline trade this game. Vientos and Lindor are consistently leading the Mets in their playoff run. Diaz hasn’t blown a save resulting in a loss since May 25th. He is a reliable closer.
I’m hoping for a split, 2-2, in San Diego.
Mets employ small ball circa 2024 to take two of three late from Os. The next seven are big boy time. No excuses. Buckle up.
Don’t think the Mets are catching the Padres or Dbacks. It’s the Bravsthey got to beat.